The UAE’s long-awaited national rail passenger service is moving closer to its official launch, as senior government officials took part in a pre-launch journey on Etihad Rail this week.
The test ride took passengers from Al Qudra in Dubai to Fujairah, offering a preview of what will become the country’s first intercity rail passenger line.
Officials join preview ride
The journey was attended by His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, along with His Excellency Shadi Malak, CEO of Etihad Rail, and other senior officials. The trip marked a key step ahead of the service’s planned commercial launch in 2026.
Passenger service details
Once operational, the rail service will link 11 cities across the UAE, from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah in the east. Each train will carry up to 400 passengers, with expected annual ridership reaching 36.5 million by 2030. The service aims to improve access between key destinations and ease congestion on the roads.
Economic and environmental goals
Speaking during the journey, Dr. Al Zeyoudi said: “The launch of Etihad Rail’s passenger services will represent a critical step in our efforts to expand and upgrade the UAE’s transport network. This landmark infrastructure project is already expediting the movement of goods and materials between industrial zones, ports and transport hubs, and will now also provide passenger services to enable greater connectivity for our population and, in doing so, support sustainable economic development and reduce harmful emissions.”
Integrated freight and transport
Etihad Rail’s 900-kilometre network connects key locations including Ghuwaifat, Fujairah, and several major ports such as Jebel Ali, Khalifa Port and Ruwais. The freight network already supports the movement of goods across industrial and logistics zones and is expected to handle over 60 million tons annually by 2030.
Etihad Rail CEO Shadi Malak noted: “We were honoured to welcome Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi and showcase Etihad Rail’s passenger service, which marks a new milestone in our journey, driven by the vision of our wise leadership and under the leadership of Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail. This project reflects Etihad Rail’s commitment to advancing an integrated transport network that enhances connectivity across the UAE and supports the transition towards a more sustainable and efficient future of mobility.”
As part of the UAE’s broader infrastructure strategy, the rail project plays a key role in connecting cities, boosting trade routes, and supporting the country’s target of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
